Hostels are a great way for young backpackers and travelers with an ambition for adventure to explore the world on a budget. Not only do you get to save cash on the price you would typically pay to stay in a fancy hotel, but you also get the chance to make new friends from across the globe. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting hostel experience, you’ll not only need to choose a great destination, but also make sure you know how to stay safe and comfortable wherever you go.
The following hostel packing tips will provide some insight into the must-have items for any hostel customer – whether you’re new to the world of backpacking or not.
1. A Passport Photocopy
If you intend to keep your passport locked away behind a padlock in your backpack at all times, then you may wonder why you need a photocopy too. The Answer? Photocopying your passport and placing it in a different safe location, such as within a hidden sleeve or reliable money belt makes sure that you’re prepared for the worst if your bag is stolen or lost. It’s also a good idea to leave another photocopy with a family member or friend back home before you set off on your trip.
2. Padlock
Although some hostels will offer you a personal locker where you can keep your backpack or a couple of valuables, it’s not always provided with a padlock, and you may find that you have to pay extra for this added security. One of the best hostel packing tips is to bring a sturdy padlock with you so that you can keep your essentials safe whenever you head out somewhere new or drift off to sleep.
3. Earplugs
As hostel packing tips go, this is one that’s regularly forgotten about. If you’re going to stay in a hostel that’s located deep within the center of a thriving city, you should expect to hear some city noises – such as trains or cars. Earplugs will help you to get a good night’s sleep when the noise levels get too high. These accessories can even be helpful in nightmarish situations where you’re stuck in a room with a snoring resident.
4. Power Strip
More hostels than ever have begun to realize just how important it is to equip rooms with enough power sockets for everyone to charge their electronic devices. However, if you have a lot to power up, then you can help your room mates and yourself by bringing along a universal plug adapter and a power strip. What’s more, if you let other people use it, you’ll quickly find that you start to make a lot of friends.
5. Flip Flops
They may not be your ideal choice of footwear when you’re headed out to explore the area, but most hotel packing tips recommend including a pair of flip-flops in your bag. While most hostels are pretty clean, they can’t be expected to clean the bathroom thoroughly after every person uses it. Because of this, having a pair of flip flops handy can be a great way to ensure you keep your feet away from grime, dirt, and other unmentionables.
